In a New York minute, trendy restaurants appear on the scene alluring food enthusiasts and curious critics to capture the first moments of the latest experience. Yet few offer a menu crafted to transport guests to Italy like Alessa – the newest venture by Thomas Murphy of 212 Hospitality Group (known for Juniper Bar and Bourbon & Branch). Hosting its grand opening in the heart of Penn District in New York City on September 20th, the much anticipated evening was filled with Italian elegance and contemporary flair. Notable attendees included a mix of celebrities, models and social media stars such as Honey Balenciaga (Dancer), Blu DeTiger (Singer/Songwriter), Sixtine (Model), Andrew Muscarella (Podcaster + Social Media Creator), Taylor Phillips (Model + Social Media Creator), Jeff O’Donnel(Social Media Creator), Jack Powers (Singer), Yves Mathieu East, (Model + Activist), Quarters of Change (Band), Nathan Katsuki (Social Media Creator), Martin Soto (Social Media Creator), Ian Michael Crumm (Social Media Creator), Serena Shahidi (Social Media Creator), Jacket Lunch (Social Media Creator) and many more.
Taylor Phillips at Alessa’s Grand Opening Photo Cred: Devin Kasparian (@devinkasparian)
Executive Chef Denevin Miranda, who was previously the Head Chef at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, brought a slice of ‘La Dolce Vita’ to Midtown South with a menu of housemade specialities. Such as homespun pizzas made in an Italian-imported oven, Italian Caviar Bumps, contemporary Italian dishes and a must-have Aperitivo Hour. Known for his creativity and sustainability-approach, Chef Miranda’s menu at Alessa brings the flavors of Italy alive in modern, unforgettable dishes.
Photo Cred: Zachary Olewnicki @zacharyolewnickii)
Food
Alessa’s antipasti offerings include House-Made Focaccia with Cacio E Pepe Butter, Crimini Caps stuffed with Blue Crab, Mascarpone, and Fontina, and Arancini with Charred Eggplant, Tomato Jam, and Smoked Mozzarella. The Raw Bar features Oysters, Fluke Crudo, Octopus Carpaccio, and Tuna Tartare. Housemade pastas cater to every palate, with options like Risotto with Hen of the Woods, Truffle Butter, Pesto, and Grana Padano; Gnudo with Blue Crab, Caviar, Almond, and Amaretto Cream Sauce; and Rigatoni with Braised Short Rib Sugo, Ricotta, and Basil. Pizzas are baked to order, with classic options like Meatball with Fresh Mozzarella, Tomato, and Ricotta, or Spicy Salami with Pork Soppressata, Calabrian Chili, and Pecorino. Mains include fresh Bronzino with Spinach, Artichoke, and Salsa Verde, or Lemon Chicken with Capers and White Wine. Signature dishes for two include Squid Ink Linguine with 1.5 lb Lobster, Bisque Sauce, and Tarragon, and Bistecca Alla Fiorentina (32oz Bone-in Ribeye) with Arugula and Cacio E Pepe Butter.
Photo Credit: Daniel Kwak
Drinks
Of course no meal is complete without the perfect drink pairing. Led by Damiano Corren, who previously worked at Employees Only, Macao Trading Company, and Sant Ambroeus – Alessa’s signature cocktail menu offered an array of options. Born and raised in Rome, Damiano began his career at the renowned Hotel de Russie. Seeking new horizons, he moved to London, where he expanded his expertise. Known for his exceptional customer service, eagerness to learn, and passion for crafting well-balanced cocktails, Damiano is also a certified sommelier. Tantalizing guests with irresistible concoctions like the Dolce Vita with Tequila, Prickly Pear, Ancho Reyes, and Campari; the Costiera Negroni with Malfy Orange, lstine Vermouth, Campari, and Cedro Nardini. The meticulously curated wine list features grapes from around the world, with a strong emphasis on Italian wines from regions such as Tuscany, Piedmont, and Bolgheri. The beer menu caters to all tastes, offering both domestic and imported brews on tap and in bottles, along with non-alcoholic options.
Photo Credit: Daniel Kwak
